Team Lakay coach Mark Sangiao believes that the rising career of Lito Adiwang and Jenelyn Olsim are the fruits of their labor and proof that the famed Benguet stable is constantly evolving.
Not only did they emerge victorious from their recent bouts but both Adiwang and Olsim became part of their respective division's Top 5 rankings in the process.
READ: Adiwang claps back at Brooks: I am ready to humble him
Adiwang got back his No. 5 seat after beating Hexigetu while Olsim, who is prioritizing her atomweight career, is currently the women's strawweight No. 5 as well.
"The result of the recent bouts of Lito and Jenelyn was pleasing and it showed how far they have come along. This is a clear indication that our Team Lakay athletes are constantly evolving and I'm very glad about this," said Sangiao. "Of course, we need to keep on advancing non-stop to yield positive outcomes every time our athletes perform."
READ: Team Lakay coach lauds Adiwang's calm demeanor vs Hexigetu
Both Adiwang and Olsim are in for a bigger test anew in their mixed martial arts career in ONE: NEXTGEN.
Adiwang will face ONE newcomer and former UFC fighter Jarred Brooks of the United States while Olsim, who replaced Itsuki Hirata, will clash with Indian rising star Ritu Phogat in the semifinals of the women's atomweight grand prix.
READ: Despite being late replacement, Jenelyn Olsim prepared for Ritu Phogat’s wrestling
For Sangiao though, there would be no better test other than facing strong opponents. Besides, the Team Lakay patriarch is confident that pressure's nothing new to his wards.
"This will be a significant test for Lito and if we can see Lito emerge as the winner of this bout, then we know Lito is here to stay and he's up for something much greater. We see every match as a new opportunity and a stepping stone for our athletes," said the 42-year-old Sangiao. "Jenelyn works hard and you can see that raw passion in her. She definitely wants to get somewhere, being inspired by her champion 'mamanongs' (elder brothers) here at Team Lakay. She is really doing good and I believe that she can still bring more to the table."
Adiwang and Brooks will headline ONE: NEXTGEN III next month while Olsim and Phogat will be the scene-stealer match alongside fellow semifinalists Stamp Fairtex of Thailand and Julie Mezabarba of Brazil on Friday night, Oct. 28.
"We always carry positivity and this time, it's no different. You can expect another stellar show from Lito and Jenelyn in their upcoming matches," added Sangiao.